Today, we’re going to be answering the question: are serrano peppers hotter than jalapeno peppers? And taking a look at the difference between these two infamous peppers. As well as comparing the two, we’ll also be looking at how both of these peppers rank on the Scoville scale, in comparison to some of the hottest peppers in the world. But are serrano peppers hotter than jalapeno peppers? Let’s take a closer look.
What Are Serrano Peppers?
Serrano peppers are a popular type of chili pepper that originally came from the states of Hidalgo and Puebla in Mexico. The serrano pepper ranges from 10,000 to 25,000 on the Scoville pepper. These peppers are usually small, thin and green. They taste quite grassy and are most often used in hot sauces, salsas and relishes.
Nutritional Information Of Serrano Peppers
You may be wondering what the nutritional value of serrano peppers is. Each one cup of raw pepper contains the following:
- Calories: 34
- Fat: 0.5g
- Sodium: 10.5mg
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 3.9g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 1.8g
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What Are Jalapeno Peppers?
Jalapeno peppers are undoubtedly the most popular pepper in the western world. The pepper originates from Veracruz in Mexico. Jalapenos are usually small, but fuller and thicker than the serrano pepper. It can range on the Scoville scale from 4,000 to 8,500. Jalapenos taste quite similar to a green bell pepper; simply hotter.
Nutritional Information Of Jalapeno Peppers
You may be curious as to the nutritional value of jalapeno peppers. Each singular pepper (around 14g) contains the following:
- Calories: 4
- Fat: 0.05g
- Sodium: 0.4mg
- Carbohydrates: 0.5g
- Fiber: 0.4g
- Sugars: 0.6g
- Protein: 0.1g
Are Serrano Peppers Hotter Than Jalapeno Peppers?
As you’ve probably noticed from this article, serrano peppers are far hotter than their cousin, the jalapeno pepper. In fact, serrano peppers can be up to five times hotter than jalapeno peppers. Jalapeno peppers range anywhere from 10,000 to 25,000 on the Scoville scale, whereas jalapeno peppers range from 4,000 to 8,500. There’s quite a big difference between the two, in terms of heat!
Can You Use Serrano Peppers Instead Of Jalapeno?
Absolutely. You can use serrano and jalapeno peppers interchangeably. However, the heat of a serrano pepper is far more intense than a jalapeno pepper. If you’re uncomfortable with heat, it’s advisable to only use a small amount of serrano pepper, in comparison to how much jalapeno pepper you’d typically use. However, if you’re looking for extra heat in your dish, they can be swapped for one another in most recipes.
Do Serrano Peppers Taste Like Jalapeno?
Both the serrano and jalapeno peppers taste very similar. They both taste similar to green peppers and have that grassy aftertaste. However, the heat difference between the two is quite steep, so bear that in mind when adding them to your dishes.
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What Is The Difference Between A Jalapeno Pepper And A Serrano Pepper?
While there are some similarities between the two peppers, there are also many differences. Let’s take a look at some of the most obvious differences between the two:
- Shape. While the serrano pepper is thin and long, the jalapeno pepper is thicker and fuller than it’s cousin
- Scoville. Their rating on the Scoville scale is very different. The serrano pepper is up to five times hotter than the jalapeno
- Taste. The taste is relatively similar, but the serrano pepper tastes more grassy and is, of course, hotter
- Capsaicin. Capsaicin is the active component of chili peppers and is what causes the intense heat you feel when eating them. The capsaicin level in the serrano pepper is up to 6g, while the jalapeno pepper is around 1.12g (on average) – no wonder there’s such a heat difference between the two!
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Do Serrano Peppers Get Hotter When Cooked?
Yes. It’s important to bear this in mind when using any chili peppers in your cooking. When cooking these peppers, the capsaicin is released into the dish and causes the spiciness to spread. A little can go a long way when it comes to cooking serrano peppers!
Ranking Of Hottest Common Peppers – Are Serrano Peppers Hotter Than Jalapeno Peppers?
We now know how serrano and jalapeno peppers measure up against each other, but how do they rank in the list of hottest common peppers? It’s worth noting that this list does not include obscure chili peppers, most of these are easily accessible online and in supermarkets.
- Sweet Bell Pepper. This everyday comes in last place, with a Scoville rating of 0. It’s sweet, delicious and perfect in everyday dishes.
- Banana Pepper. This pepper has a rating between 0-500 on the Scoville scale. Mild and tangy.
- Pepperoncini. This pepper has a rating between 100-500 on the Scoville scale. Sweet, mild and usually pickled.
- Peppadew. This pepper has a rating between 1,100-1,200 on the Scoville scale. Sweet with an underlying heat.
- Chipotle Pepper. This pepper has a rating between 2,500-8,000 on the Scoville scale. Smoky and spicy.
- Jalapeno. This pepper has a rating between 4,000-8,5000 on the Scoville scale. Grassy with mild spice.
- Serrano Pepper. This pepper has a rating between 10,000-25,000 on the Scoville scale. Grassy with heat.
- Cayenne Pepper. This pepper has a rating between 30,000-50,000 on the Scoville scale. Moderately hot and very flavorful.
- Scotch Bonnet. This pepper has a rating between 100,000-350,000 on the Scoville scale. Sweet, fruity, but very hot!
- Habanero. This pepper has a rating between 100,000-350,000 on the Scoville scale. Very similar to Scotch Bonnet; sweet and very hot!
- Ghost Pepper. This pepper has a rating between 800,000-1,000,000 on the Scoville scale. Intense fruity flavor.
- Carolina Reaper. This pepper has a rating between 1,400,000–2,200,000 on the Scoville scale. Sweet, fruity and intense.
You can find out more about chili peppers and their ratings here.
Conclusion – Are Serrano Peppers Hotter Than Jalapeno Peppers
I hope this post has helped to answer the question: are serrano peppers hotter than jalapeno peppers? Both are equally delicious and can add a real kick to many dishes.
What’s the hottest chili pepper you’ve ever had? Please feel free to let me know in the comments below. Sharing is caring!
